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Introduction by Bert Cunningham, Regimental Historian

The Fighting 69th is based on the actual exploits of New York City's 69th Infantry Regiment during World War I. (The regiment was first given that nickname by opposing General Robert E. Lee during the Civil War.) Several real-life people are depicted including Father Francis P. Duffy, the chaplain; future OSS leader "Wild Bill" Donovan, the battalion commander; Lt. Oliver Ames, a platoon commander; and then-Sgt. Joyce Kilmer, the poet.